My question involves criminal law for the state of: Florida
Team. I got caught shoplifting from a grocery store with goods valued at $140.00
I was arrested in a way, and what I mean by this is that I was NOT taken into custody and processed at the police station. Everything was handled inside the mgr's office inside the store. The police came in, took pictures and filled out an arrest form. No handcuffs were used at all. 25 minutes later I walked out of the store and went home.
I have my arraignment coming up in 2 weeks and I am nervous.
My question is this:
I am concerned about the future impact of this misdemeanor charge with my business and potential income. The companies I work with do background checks as I deal with large, million dollar plus projects.
I am willing to accept any punishment that comes my way, I just don't want a guilty charge on my record.
The big question is HOW do I plead ? Gulty or Not?
I realize I got caught and do not want to waste the courts time or my own. No point in going to trial, again it's only $140.00 crime. So what do I say at the arraignment?
My only focus is the charge on my record and whether it can be expunged or deleted.
Is it possible to get it dismissed if I do some community service?

